Get ready for an adrenaline-filled day on the Madawaska River with Mad Adventure Rafting. Experience thrilling rapids, breathtaking scenery, and expert guidance—all just a short drive from Ottawa.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to handle paddling and quick movements.
Wildlife
History
The Madawaska River has been used by Indigenous communities for centuries and played a key role in regional logging history.
Conservation
The Madawaska Kanu Centre practices sustainable tourism, ensuring river health and wildlife protection are prioritized.
Madawaska Kanu Centre
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled day on the Madawaska River with Mad Adventure Rafting. Experience thrilling rapids, breathtaking scenery, and expert guidance—all just a short drive from Ottawa.
Madawaska Kanu Centre is a paddling and rafting operator based in Barry's Bay, Ontario, offering guided river experiences on the Madawaska River. The centre runs Adventure Rafting and Family Rafting trips, and hosts the annual Mid Mad Fest celebration of the river. Adventure Rafting is a two-hour, guide-led excursion in small rafts focused on teamwork, navigating waves, catching eddies, and embracing getting wet in whitewater. Madawaska Family Rafting is a two-hour family-friendly rafting trip covering five kilometres of whitewater on the Madawaska River; the family trip is suitable for ages two and up and includes opportunities to jump into the river under guide supervision. Mid Mad Fest is a community-focused festival held rain or shine that features paddling, food, dancing, and celebration of the river.
All offerings operate from a base in Barry's Bay and are presented with expert guides who lead each trip. The centre emphasizes accessible outdoor adventure for families, groups, and paddlers seeking excitement on the Madawaska River. Safety practices, guided instruction, and clear trip descriptions allow guests to choose the right experience: high-adrenaline Adventure Rafting, family-oriented Madawaska Family Rafting, or the seasonal Mid Mad Fest event. Madawaska Kanu Centre serves local and visiting paddlers alike seeking authentic river experiences in eastern Ontario, delivering organized, guide-led rafting and community festival programming on the Madawaska River.
Adventure Rafting operates rain or shine, and trip descriptions list duration and basic requirements so guests can prepare appropriately. Bookings are available to local and visiting paddlers throughout the season each year.
Location
Barry's Bay, ON
On the Madawaska River
Trip Length
2 hours
Typical duration for main trips
Family Friendly
Ages 2+
Suitable for ages 2 and up
Events
Mid Mad Fest
Rain-or-shine river festival
Book Adventure Rafting, Madawaska Family Rafting, or join Mid Mad Fest to secure a spot on the river.
Wear the right gear
Secure a properly fitting life jacket and helmet provided by the guides to stay safe during rapid sections.
Check the weather forecast
Rain can increase river difficulty; plan your trip on a clear day for optimal safety and fun.
Bring waterproof essentials
Carry a dry bag for valuables and a waterproof camera to capture the action without damage.
Arrive early
Getting to the centre with enough time ensures a smooth safety briefing and gear setup before launching.
Waterproof Clothing
Keeps you dry and comfortable during splashes and rapid sections.
Neoprene Shoes or Sandals
Provides grip and protection for your feet while navigating rocky riverbeds.
Dry Bag
Keeps personal belongings dry during the expedition.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Protects your skin and eyes from the sun's rays during the trip.
summer